Family Ever After Blog

Family Ever After Blog

Archives for April 2020

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6 Useful real-life tips that will help you save money when building your home

The task of building a home is very challenging and also very expensive. Besides having to deal with numerous legal entities, people also might have to seek financing, discuss ideas with architects, negotiate terms with contractors, etc. This is all very time-consuming and that’s an investment you definitely need to make if you want a nice house. However, some of the spending can be severely reduced both short and long-term if you just use some tips and tricks that we’re going to disclose here. Have a look at 6 useful tips to save money in house construction!

No. 1 – Always keep tabs on processes & costs (Excel)

If you have a document where you keep your estimates and real-life expenditures, you can immediately spot the areas where you’re over the budget. Yes, this is slightly time-intensive, but an app like MS Excel will do the math for you while you only need to make the decisions.

No. 2 – Ask architect recommendations for contractors

Architects devise a project for the home. They are usually in good terms with at least some contractors. If you ask an architect or a bureau of architects that created the project for your home, for a recommendation, they can likely get in touch with a particular company or individual contractor to get you a better timeline or a better deal. Besides, this is much quicker than going through the ‘Yellow pages’.

No. 3 – Use more premium materials

Alright, this isn’t going to reduce initial costs of the project, but bear with us, in the long run – you’ll definitely need less frequent repairs and/or renovations.

And we’re also not talking about diamond incrusted steps or a marble statue as decoration, we’re talking about using better pain, higher quality concrete, better wood for the decking, flooring, etc. For example, instead of regular lumber, you could opt for Japanese charred timber. It has a distinct and more premium finish and texture, can be applied both for interior and exterior decoration and has waterproof, pest-proof and fireproof qualities. If you want to know more, hop on to Degmeda.

No. 4 – Keep control of material purchasing

Contractors can bill you endlessly, trust us. However, you can greatly reduce the expenditures by negotiating to buy materials on your own. This way you avoid ‘preference buying’, ‘excess buying’ and all the other stuff which isn’t necessarily bad but does exponentially increase the final cost of the job.

No. 5 – Plan ahead

Before going on a spending spree, make sure you know how much exactly of anything you’re going to need. If you’re in the US, use this calculator to have a rough cost estimate laid out before you.

No. 6 – Make sure that your accommodation is accounted for

You definitely don’t want to move into a house that has no internet wires, thermostats laid out, etc. All accommodating home systems should be installed before you move in, and not afterwards. This is an enormous save.

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5 Survival Myths That May be Injurious

 

From childhood, you grow up hearing different myths. Some of them are true and the others are not. Some offer lessons that would help you get out of trouble while some are based on falsehood. It is wise not to practice them as you may end up getting hurt.

Experts from Do my homework now will highlight below 5 life-saving myths which you should avoid as they may end up causing more harm than good if you were to believe them.

Lighting Fire using Two Sticks

Our forefathers invented how to make a fire by using two dry sticks. This has not yet been proven and it is not true.

If you plan to go for a trip it is therefore advisable to pack matches, a matchbox, a spark rod and a lighter. With these you will be able to start a fire should your trip be in an island or in the jungle.

Drink Water Downriver

We cannot survive without taking water. It is highly discouraged to drink water that you get anywhere. You should take clean, purified or boiled water. Drinking water downstream is not safe, it is a myth which is not true. This is because people upstream will have used the water and contaminated it as it flows downstream.

After Snake Bite, Suck the Venom

There is a myth that after a snake bite you should suck and spit the venom out. This is not what you are supposed to do. Instead, you ought to first wash the bitten area and cover it. Then quickly rush to the nearest medical facility for assistance.

The reason is the siphon gadgets cause harm to the tissues of your body. It is therefore advisable to keep away from places or things that you cannot see clearly when you are on a trip to regions prone to snakes.

Run From or Pretend to be Dead When you Encounter a Bear

This is among the most awkward myths and seems to be true. However, you should never run or pretend to be dead once you encounter a bear.

The fact is that no man can be able to outrun a bear and you are not an exception. On the other hand, if you play dead the bear will sense that you intend to harm it and come for you. The best decision therefore would be to walk backwards, away from it while keeping an eye contact. This way the bear will see you intend no harm.

Seek Food First When Lost

When you are lost in a jungle the first decision should not be to start looking for food. This myth is harmful. Instead, seek a water source and find or erect a shelter. The reason behind this is you can manage at least forty days with no food but you cannot without water.

Conclusion

The myths mentioned above are common as you grow up. However, you should not practice them as they may end up being injurious to you.

 

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THE BEST BROILED LOBSTER TAIL RECIPE (STEP BY STEP)

This guide has all you need to know about cooking lobster tails – how to prepare lobster tails (butterfly them), how to cook lobster tails, and the BEST broiled lobster tail recipe – all in just 20 minutes!

Welcome to the ultimate guide to cooking lobster tails! With the flavorful butter sauce and ultra-quick cooking method, it’s the best lobster tail recipe for holidays, celebrations, and date nights at home. You’ll be surprised how easy it is to make broiled lobster tail – it’s ready in less than 20 minutes – but it’s so much more affordable than getting it out at a restaurant. Keep on reading, because I’m going to cover everything you need to know: how to shop for lobster, how to butterfly lobster tails, how to cook lobster tails, and plenty of side dishes to serve with lobster.

HOW TO BUTTERFLY A LOBSTER TAIL

The best way to broil lobster tails starts with butterflied lobster tails! While this may look complicated, I promise that it’s easier than you probably think.

Here’s how to prepare lobster tails before you cook them:

Butterfly the lobster. Using kitchen shears, cut down the center of the shell, all the way to the tail, but not cutting the tail. You want to cut through the top of the shell, but don’t cut through the bottom.

TIP: It’s fine if you cut through the meat. In fact, it cooks a bit more evenly if you do. The important part is not to cut through the bottom shell, though.

Split the shell. Using your thumbs and fingers to spread open the shell, gently push the lobster meat upward, separating it away from the bottom shell. Leave the end attached to the tail fin.

Gently split it open first…

and then continue to open up the shell more, so that it separates away from the meat on the sides…

Push lobster meat above the shell. Slightly push together the empty shell underneath and place the row of meat on top.

Place butterflied lobster tail onto a lined baking sheet. See? Your homemade lobster tails are already starting to look like you got them from a fancy restaurant, even before cooking…

HOW TO COOK LOBSTER TAIL

Once you have it butterflied, there are several options for how to cook lobster tail:

Broiled lobster – This method is in the oven under the high heat of the broiler. My easy lobster tail recipe is broiled!

Baked lobster – Similar to the broil method, but under normal heat. I find that the high heat of broiling gets a more tender inside than regular baking.

Poached lobster – Sometimes this is another term for boiled lobster, and sometimes it means simmering the shucked lobster tails in a layer of butter (called butter poaching).

Boiled lobster – This is one of the simplest methods, as it just involves cooking the tails in boiling water. But, I find the flavor is not as good as lobster cooked with butter.

Grilled lobster – You can even cook lobster tails on a grill if you like! We don’t have nice weather enough during the year for this to be my go-to method.

As you can probably guess, I think the best lobster recipe is broiled! The cook time is quick (just 10 minutes or less!) and it’s super flavorful from the butter.

 

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4 Ways To Instantly Increase Your Home’s Curb Appeal

If you’re looking to sell your house, then it’s important that it’s in good condition. If you have a damaged roof or cracked foundation, it can be difficult to appeal to buyers if there’s too much work to do.

Major repairs aren’t something that can always be noticed from the side of the road, however. In order to pull buyers in, it’s also helpful to know the right tricks to be appealing as possible from the street. This is known as curb appeal. A few quick changes can make a huge difference in how fast you’re able to get your home off the market.

Believe it or not, there are ways to increase your home’s curb appeal that don’t cost an arm and a leg. In some cases, you can make changes that take less than an afternoon for under $20.

If you’re interested in looking at boosting your curb appeal to prospective buyers, then take a look at some of the best expert tips out there.

 

Paint Your Front Door

 

Believe it or not, painting your front door has shown to make a huge difference in how much attention your house gathers. Potential buyers alright often drawn to a boldly colored front door since it gives your home extra flair. Believe it or not, a colored door can make up for a lot of problems with your home’s exterior. It could completely refresh the look of your porch breathe new light into an old paint job.

 

When choosing the color of your door, opt for something that goes well with the rest of the house. Rather than going with a muted color, choose something bright! Be fearless.

 

Update Hardware

 

Consider updating hardware like your doorknob or even home street numbers. If your street numbers are looking like something out of an old horror film, then run to the hardware store and buy some shiny new ones. They cost less than twenty bucks in most cases and can make an enormous difference in how modern your front door looks.

 

While you’re at it, consider replacing your mailbox too! These changes, which may seem small, can actually make a world of difference. It’s all about being creative with the little details.

 

Add Plants

 

Plants can breathe new life into the front of your home and boost your curb appeal significantly by adding the magic of nature. In addition to adding potted plants, you can also consider planting flowers along the walkway.

Remember, when planting flowers, remember that symmetry is key. If you plant flowers on one side of your porch, make sure to do the same on the other side.

 

Add Lights

 

Consider adding an illuminated path to your front yard. Not only is it inviting, but it provides security. Rather than lighting your home with a single floodlight, potential buyers will appreciate a softly lit path.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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How To Handpick The Best Duvet Covers

We all know that duvets are actually a significant investment. Even if you don’t feel like you haven’t spent a fortune on your duvet, you know you are not going to buy more. Most people just have one duvet that they pull out whenever the season firms sharp and chilly. You can’t leave your one and only duvet without a cover because you don’t want to dirty it. So, a duvet cover is basically a protective case for your duvet, and you must pay proper attention while buying it. There are certain aspects that you must go over. Continue reading to find out what they are –

The material of the cover

While handpicking your duvet cover, you just cannot afford to avoid paying attention to the material. It is the most critical feature, and it determines whether or not a duvet cover is right for you. The first reason is your skin type. Most people don’t pay attention to this. They simply buy what looks good to the eyes. You shouldn’t commit this mistake. If you have sensitive skin, always stick to natural fibers that are breathable because synthetic and microfibers will irritate your skin, provided your direct contact with your duvet, and it’s cover. Even if you don’t have sensitive skin, go for more organic blends that are comfortable and easily washable.

The design of the cover

Only after you have made sure that you love the material, must you check out the design. In short, always choose comfort over appearance. In order to select the design, think about your personal sense of style. The design must speak to you and sit well with the aesthetics of your room. Your duvet is always on your bed for a season or two, at least. That’s why the design matters because you are going to be seeing a lot of it. Usually, people go for designs and colors that are not too bold so that they are soothing and calming to the eyes, especially while going to sleep and waking up.

The thread count of the cover

The number of threads running horizontally and vertically over an area of square ten centimeters is referred to as the thread count. The thread count of fabric tells us about its quality. If it is higher, the fabric is more soft and long-lasting. You can go for a higher thread count if you want your duvet to be warm, and you can go for a lower thread count if you want an airflow through your duvet cover. Your choice can vary from season to season.

The washability of the cover

While shopping for duvet cover sets, there is another feature that you might want to go over, other than the material, the design, and the thread count. It is the washability of the cover. You must pick something that is easily washable and does not require a lot of care while storing.

 

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Off-Campus Living: 6 Amazing Reasons Why It Is Beneficial

 

So, if you have landed on this article, it is safe to assume that you have secured a position at a dreamy Australian uni! While we are happy for you, we must also warn you of what lies ahead: A howl lot of sweat!

The journey ahead would need you to be fully responsible. You would now have to look after yourself. Starting with looking out for your own accommodation! To make that easier for you, we are going to tell you to look for off-campus accommodation. No, we aren’t unaware of the fact that your uni would also offer on-campus accommodation, which is the case with most Australian colleges. However, there are certain perks that your on-campus housing won’t offer. Following are a few reasons why you should consider off-campus living, read on:

  • More fun: There is no denying it! When you live in a free apartment or an off-campus rental, you get more opportunities to have fun. You could throw a party, have your friends over, and the adventure continues for all your college life. However, with on-campus student dormitories, the lights shut early. No outsiders allowed! The scope for having fun is pretty limited! Why would you want to live like that?
  • More relaxed: The on-campus housing solutions ar every strict about these rules on who can come and when can they leave, these rules can land you in trouble if not followed to perfect precision. With your apartment, you don’t have to worry about it. You could also look out for PGs or hostels, anything off-campus will be less particular.
  • Independent: When you rent out an apartment all on your own, you have to pay the monthly bills, you have to learn cooking and other necessary livelihood chores. This may sound like a lot of adult duty, but anyway, when you get your job, you will have to get down with this! Better start now, plus, independent life can help you gain your self-confidence and pride.
  • Cheaper: Noone would tell you this, but on-campus accommodation isn’t always the most financially good option. If you begin your house hunt early on, you may even find good spots near the uni in almost a fraction of the rent. Plus, when you cook your meals, you get the option of saving on the cafeteria cost, which is how most on-campus hostels look after your food. Moreover, the food int he cafeteria isn’t so great either, at your place, you get the perk of cooking for your own heart’s satisfaction.
  • More options: There are so many better places outside. For example, if you’re looking for a place in Queensland, you could go online and look for student housing on websites and rentals such as Iglu Student Accommodation. From a 1RK studio to a 3 BHK, you would find all the economic options in your vicinity just a click away.
  • Off-campus: The fact that you would get to be outside the un campus is the biggest perk. When you go for an on-campus placed accommodation spot, your chances of getting out of that campus to get little! However, in a new country or state, you don’t want to spend all your time cramming up the books. Being in an off-campus place would allow you to travel. The very commute from the place to your school would make you notice so many things.

We hope this article has been a helpful guide on why off-campus student accommodation is good for you.

 

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No Needle, No Scalpel Vasectomy, Your Questions Answered

Each year tens of thousands of men across the globe opt to undergo a procedure which will remove their ability to create sperm, this is called a vasectomy. There are of course many reasons why someone may decide that this is the right treatment for them, and it is always important to learn the facts before deciding on this type of procedure. The most common approach is the no needle no scalpel vasectomy and we have been inundated with questions about this approach, which is why we wanted to put together a quick list of answers to some of your most asked questions. We consulted with a urologist to bring you he most accurate information so let’s get stuck into those FAQs.

How is a Vasectomy Possible Without a Scalpel or Needle?

This is a very interesting approach to a vasectomy and it involves making a very small hole in the skin which is large enough to fit instruments through, which make their way into the scrotal sac, spreading the hole open every so slightly and thus reducing the need for any kind of cutting which would be done with a scalpel. The skin down there is very flexible and stretchy and that is why a small hole is all that is required to perform the procedure.

Is This New?

Many think that the no needle, no scalpel method is a novel one but it was in fact first developed in the early 80s in China, and then popularized throughout the USA during the mid-90s. There is in fact a wealth of experience in those who perform this procedure and whilst there are many who will prefer a traditional method of vasectomy, this is one which many patients prefer.

Is The Recovery Time Any Different?

One great benefit of doing the procedure in this fashion is that the recovery time is greatly reduced. With a traditional vasectomy which involves making an incision, the recovery time can be anywhere up to 10 days before the patient will be fully back on their feet, in the case of the no scalpel approach however patients can expect to be off their feet for no more than 4 days, pain free. Naturally the fact that the skin is able to heal much easier is the key reason as to why recover y is much easier with this procedure.

Does It Cost More?

The average cost of a vasectomy is $1,000 and no matter whether the patient opts for traditional methods or the no needle, no scalpel approach, the costs really don’t vary. The length of the procedure is the same and the instruments used are really very similar which is why the cost too is largely the same. Naturally this may vary depending on where you have the procedure done, but in general the prices remain the same across the board.

Do you have any more questions on this topic that you’d like us to get into? If so feel free to write them below.

 

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What To Expect When Hiring a Luxury Van

If you are looking at transporting a number of guests in style and comfort then the perfect option would be to look at Luxury Van rentals. There are many benefits to hiring a Luxury van, here are just a few that will help.

Airport transportation – A great reason to consider hiring a Luxury Van is for airport shuttle services. If you are travelling with your family or a group of your friends using a Luxury Van will be the first step to making sure that everyone arrives at the airport in time. We all have that one friend or famiky member known in tye group for never being on time but with designated collection times there will be no excuses for being late and you can be sure that you will arrive at the airport in plenty of time. You wont need to worry about your suitcases fitting in either because there is plenty of space for all passengers luggage on board the Luxury Van. You can travel to the airport in luxury without the usual chaos that tends to happen before jetting off on vacation.

Business Meetings – You may consider hiring a Luxury Van when travelling to business meetings, you and your co-workers can use the travel time to talk over last minute plans or how you want a specific meeting to go without the added pressure of driving through traffic or navigating through unknown roads, your driver will be sure to know the quickest and easiest route.

Transporting a larger party – When hiring a Luxury Van it means that you are able to pick up 13 passengers together. You might be going out with a group of your friends to celebrate a special occassion and it would be ideal for you to all be collected at the same time from one location or from a number of locations. It can even be arranged for you to be dropped off at home again after youru celebration too, this will relieve you of any worrying about trying to arrange your way home and you can relax and enjoy the evening knowing that you will also be travelling home in style. Your celebration can continue for a little longer.

What amenities are provided on board a Luxury van?

The interior of the Sprinter Van is comprised of relaxing leather seats, on board Wi-Fi, LCD screens, DVD players You can also make the most of complimentary water and soda to make it easy to enjoy your ride Sprinter van rental.

There are plenty of things that you are bound to enjoy, you can make full use of the wifi, you can party or relax with your choice of music on board or you can sit back in your luxury chair and switch on the TV. The way you choose to entertain yourself whilst travelling in a Luxury Van is entirely up to you but just make sure you take full advantage of the luxury that is on offer.

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What To Expect From a Mammogram Screening?

Are you worried about an upcoming mammogram screening? Have you received an appointment but don’t really understand what is involved? You may even feel unsure about a clear or unclear result. Well here are a few pointers as to what usually happens during and after a mammogram screening.

Breast screening uses an X-ray test called a mammogram to check the breast for signs of cancer. It can spot cancers that are too small to see or feel.

What will happen if I choose to have breast screening?

When you arrive at the breast screening unit, the staff will check your details and ask you about any breast problems you have had. If you have any questions the it always good to ask them before you have the mammogram screening as the mammographer will help to settle any nerves and put your mind at ease. When you go into the room for your mammogram, you need to undress to the waist. So it may be easier to wear a skirt or trousers instead of a dress. The mammographer will first explain what will happen. She will then place your breast onto the mammogram machine and lower a plastic plate onto it to flatten it. This helps to keep your breast still and get clear X-rays. The mammographer will usually take two X-rays of each breast, one from above and one from the side. She will go behind a screen while the X-rays are taken. You have to keep still for several seconds each time. It may seem overwhelming but the whole appointment takes less than half an hour and the mammogram screening itself will only takes a few minutes.

If the results aren’t clear.

If the x-ray isn’t clear enough or shows any abnormal areas, the clinic staff will call you back for more tests. You might need to have the x-rays taken again.

What if you are called back

Around 7 out of 100 women are called back after their first screening test. If this happens, you might feel very worried. But many of these women won’t have cancer. Around 3 out of 100 women are called back after further screening tests. If you are called back because your mammogram showed an abnormal area, you might have to have a magnified mammogram. This can show up particular areas of the breasts more clearly. These mammograms show the borders of any lump or thickened area. You might also have an ultrasound scan of the breast or tests to take a sample of cells from the abnormal area.

What if my results are clear?

When you get your results and they have come back clear then you can give and big sigh of relief. Having an annual mammogram screening is highly recommended as your breasts can change regularly, having an appointment each year can help to get an early detection of breast cancer or it csn continue to give to you peace of mind that everything is continuing to go on as normal.

 

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What is Ulthera skin tightening?

Have you noticed that your skin has become loose around your eyes and chin? Maybe you are wondering what you can do to help, have you considered Ulthera skin therapy? What is Ulthera skin tightening and how can it help? Let’s consider what it is and how it could be beneficial to you. We will see what the procedure entails, what effects we can expect to see and what the recovery period may be.

What is involved in Ulthera skin tightening procedure?

Sadly as we get older the collagen in our skin breaks down and this causes the skin to lose its strength and elasticity. This is the primary cause for that loose, sagging skin. Ulthera skin tightening is a noninvasive and non surgical procedure that can gradually help to lift the skin around your eyebrows and can tighten loose skin under your chin or on your neck. There is also an option to have this procedure on the skin around your chest area too. Ulthera uses ultrasound waves that can travel deeper than all other non surgical procedures and that paired with your skins natural healing process will lift and tone loose, sagging skin. Ulthera skin therapy is approved by the FDA and has proven to give great results.

How does Ulthera skin tightening work?

It works by the sound energy (ultrasound) reaching past the skins surface and treating the skin accordingly. Ultherapy works when it stimulates the collagen production and elsastin in your skins foundation, moving your body to create new tissue.

How long does Ulthera skin tightening take?

The procedure typically takes around 60-90 minutes if working on the face and neck area, this time will differ depending on where you are receiving the procedure. If you choose to have the procedure on your chest area then this procedure will take around 30 minutes.

What to expect after the procedure.

There can be some redness and swelling immediately after the procedure and maybe for a couple of days afterwards. However there is no down time needed after the treatment and you are free to continue with your day. Don’t expect to see results straight away as you may be left disappointed the best results on your skin will appear around 60-90 days after your treatment.

So if you have been wanting a trestment but you have been too worried about receiving a surgical treatment then Ulthera skin tightening is the best potion for you. It will prove to be the best alternative with a non invasive, non surgical treatment that will give learning and lasting results, it has little side effect and it will not interfere with your day to day life. A simple fix to the loose skin that has been gradually getting worse over the year without surgery and downtime. Your skin will rejuvenate and you will be back to feeling your youthful self with a new vigour for life. It will be the best decision you have made.